RSV: Respiratory Syncytial Virus

RSV is a respiratory virus that causes significant illness and death, particularly for babies under 6 months and adults older than 60.

Each year, RSV sends up to 80,000 kids under 5 to the hospital. For adults over 65, as many as 160,000 hospitalizations are attributed to RSV. So, although we often think of this as a disease affecting children, it has devasting effects on our older population, too.

The good news is that there have been several recent approvals of RSV vaccines, which may mean new treatments and less illness for the cold and flu season. The University of Kansas Health System is part of an academic medical center that’s connected to ongoing research, including data on the control and spread of respiratory viruses. We’re always working to provide our patients access to the best preventive care and treatment.

RSV is a virus that affects your lungs and breathing. While you can get RSV at any time, it is more common to get it in the winter months, like getting the flu.

For most people, RSV is a mild virus that’s similar to the common cold. However, for the very young, older adults and those with other risk factors, RSV can lead to bronchiolitis, pneumonia, hospitalization and death.

There is a type A RSV and a type B, but they are not substantially different in their symptoms or severity.

The symptoms of RSV often mimic the common cold:

• Congestion and runny nose
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Loss of appetite

However, RSV frequently causes wheezing and shortness of breath, which are causes for concern.

If you have a premature infant or baby under 6 months old, they may be at risk for RSV since their immune system is underdeveloped. Similarly, if you’re over 65, you may have age-related decline in your immunity that makes you more susceptible to RSV.

You’re also more at risk for getting RSV if you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma.

If you are feeling sick and have RSV symptoms, visit your primary care doctor or an urgent care. At the visit, your doctor will start with a physical exam. If needed, they may order a test – usually a nasal swab – to confirm RSV.

The first step in treating RSV is to get lots of fluids, rest and take pain relievers or fever-reducing medications.

In more severe cases, you may need IV fluids or additional oxygen. In the most extreme cases, intubation may be required to help you breathe.

There have been several recent developments aimed at preventing the spread of RSV in the first place. The Food and Drug Administration has granted approvals for 3 different vaccines – 2 for adults over 60 and 1 for young children with specific medical conditions. These vaccines could be available in late 2023.

Additionally, it’s always a good idea to limit your contact with sick people, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face to avoid catching RSV.